ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 1
Listening 1
FILE 1
Listening 2
Museum guide So, the painting we’re looking at now is called
Nighthawks by the American artist Edward
Hopper, who was born in 1882. Hopper
finished the painting in 1942. Nighthawks
came to Chicago a short time after that.
1
Anna
John
Anna
John
As you can see, the painting is a scene in an
American café late at night. There are three
customers. They’re sitting at the bar. The
customers look like strangers. They aren’t
looking at each other and they aren’t talking.
There’s also a barman. He’s busy behind the
bar and he isn’t talking to his customers
either. It’s quite a lonely scene. The New York
street outside the café is very dark. It’s very
bright inside the café. But it doesn’t look
warm and friendly in there at all.
The word ‘nighthawk’ – like ‘night owl’
– describes a person who stays up late. So the
three people at the bar are like nighthawks.
The two men are wearing dark suits and hats.
One of the men is smoking. He’s sitting next
to a woman. She’s wearing a red dress with
short sleeves. She has lovely long, red hair.
She looks pretty but she isn’t smiling. As you
can see, the barman is wearing a white jacket
and a white hat. He’s looking outside. Maybe
he wants to go home.
How often do you come and watch a film here?
Every Saturday night.
Really? That’s a lot. Well, I hope this film’s good.
Yes. Oh, everyone’s going in now. Let’s go in and find
our seats.
2
Kim What are you looking for?
Jessie A skirt and a jacket. I need some new clothes for work.
Do you like this jacket?
Kim Yes … Oh, look. I love that blue dress …
Jessie Let’s try them on quickly. The shop’s closing in ten
minutes.
3
Jane
Tom
Jane
Tom
So, what’s your new girlfriend like?
Well, she’s shy – until you get to know her. She’s very
hard-working, too.
She’s just like you, then! Oh, sorry, this is my station. I
have to get off here.
Oh, OK. See you on the train tomorrow morning. Bye.
4
Eva
Where did you study English before?
Pedro At a school in Barcelona. My teacher was really nice and
I learned a lot.
Eva
Do you like our teacher here?
Pedro Yes, he’s really fun. Let’s do this speaking exercise
now …
Eva
Yes, OK.
5
Jo
Kay
Jo
Kay
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
What does your boyfriend look like?
Er, he’s quite tall and thin. He has lovely blue eyes, short
blond hair, …
Mm, he sounds nice. Oh, here’s my boss. I’m going to
my desk. See you later.
OK. I have a meeting now anyway …
1
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 2
Listening 1
FILE 2
Listening 2
Annette Last winter my boyfriend and I went on holiday to
Kenya for two weeks. We rented a beach hut on a
beautiful white sandy beach for the first week. And
the second week, we decided to go on safari. We
planned a perfect holiday. But it didn’t begin well.
Nicole 1
When I was 14, I went to Italy with my class at school. It
was in winter, and we went skiing. We also went
sightseeing in Trento. In this photo, we’re standing in
the centre of the town. We were all holding hands and
smiling.
On the first day, we arrived at the beach hut. There
were lots of young people in the other beach huts.
Some of them invited us to a party on the first night.
Soon after we got there, my boyfriend started flirting
with one of the girls at the party. He didn’t dance with
me, but spent the evening talking to the girl. The
atmosphere was romantic and magical, but not for
me. I was angry. We argued about everything after
that.
Although we weren’t getting on well, I still wanted to
go on the safari. When we got on the bus, I saw the
girl from the party. That was the end. We were
camping and we all ate together every night. It was
terrible. I felt so sad and lonely, and my boyfriend
looked so happy with the other girl.
We broke up when we got back to London. My
boyfriend went to Manchester with his new
girlfriend. I took lots of photos on holiday but I can’t
look at them now. I’d love to go back to Kenya one
day. But next time I’m going on my own.
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
2
And in this one I was 15. My parents took my sisters
and me on holiday to Spain. We went by plane and then
we hired a car and drove to the village where we were
staying. It was a fantastic holiday. We went swimming
in the sea every day and the weather was perfect.
3
This is a photo of me in Australia when I was 24. I was
working in a café in Sydney at that time. And I was
living with two English girls in a flat. We spent all our
free time at the beach, surfing and swimming, and had a
wonderful time.
4
And look at this photo ... my brother’s laughing. He was
happy because he was going abroad to work. And I was
crying because he was leaving. I was 25 then.
5
This was last summer, when I was 28. I went shopping
in Paris with my best friend. We stayed at a luxurious
hotel, ate delicious food at expensive restaurants, and
didn’t want to come home!
2
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 3
Listening 1
FILE 3
Listening 2
Interviewer Excuse me … Good morning, I’m from Smart
Travel magazine. Can I ask you a few questions?
Tamsin
Er, yes, that’s fine.
Interviewer Where are you from?
Tamsin
I’m from the US. New York, actually.
Interviewer And what are your plans in the UK?
Tamsin
Well, I’m on business. I’m a clothes designer. I
come to the UK twice a year for London Fashion
Week.
Interviewer And is that happening this week?
Tamsin
Yes, it is. I’m meeting some people this afternoon
and I’ve got a photo shoot tonight and …
Interviewer You’re going to be busy …
Tamsin
Yes, I am. But I’m going to have fun, too.
Interviewer And how long are you staying in London?
Tamsin
Well, I’m in London for a week, then I’m going to
fly to Ireland for a week’s holiday.
Interviewer That sounds nice. What are you going to do
there?
Tamsin
I’m going to visit my grandmother. She’s
ninety-five years old!
Interviewer Oh, lovely. Enjoy your stay.
Tamsin
Thank you.
1
Molly
Bill
Molly
Bill
What time are you going to the airport?
Well, my flight’s at 10.30 so I’m leaving home at 6.00.
And how are you getting there?
By taxi. My company pays for it.
2
Andy
Cath
Andy
Cath
Andy
I’m going to be really busy next week.
Oh? Why’s that?
I’m going to a conference in Turkey.
Oh, that sounds exotic. What kind of conference?
It’s a conference for NGOs.
3
Sara
John
Sara
John
What are you going to do after university, John?
I’m going to teach English in China.
Oh, that’s amazing. I’d love to go to China.
Well, come and visit me next year!
4
Pete
Anna
Pete
Anna
What are we going to do today?
I’d like to go cycling in the forest. Do you want to come?
Er, yes. That’ll be fun. But I’ve got no sense of direction.
Oh … don’t worry about it. I’ve got my smartphone
with me.
5
Lisa
Have you got any plans for the weekend?
Harry Yes, it’s my partner’s birthday. I’m staying at home and
cooking dinner for her.
Lisa
What are you making?
Harry Oh, something easy. Pasta, I think.
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
3
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 4
Listening 1
FILE 4
Listening 2
Mum
1
Julie
Mark
Julie
Mark
Jack
Mum
Jack
Mum
Jack
Mum
Jack
Mum
Jack
Mum
Jack
Hi, Jack. I’m home … Did you have a good day at
college?
Not bad. Mum, there’s nothing in the house to eat. I’m
really hungry.
I’ve just been to the shops, Jack. Dinner is in half an
hour … By the way, have you tidied your room yet?
Mum, I’ve been at college all day and now I’ve got a lot
of homework. I’ve picked up my dirty clothes,
though …
OK, thanks, Jack. Maybe you can tidy your room later.
Can you lay the table for dinner now? And when you’ve
finished doing that, can you take out the rubbish for
me?
All right, all right. I’m going …
Jack, don’t look so bored, please. There’s a lot of
housework to do, and I can’t do it all.
I realize that, Mum. I’ve got a lot of homework to finish,
that’s all.
And I’ve got a lot of other things to do as well, Jack.
Sorry, Mum. I know.
OK, let’s just do the boring things and then we can sit
down and have a nice dinner.
Yeah, OK. Sounds good.
2
Dad
Izzie
Dad
Izzie
3
Tim
Alice
Tim
Alice
Mark, have you ever been to a fancy dress party?
I have, actually. I went to one last Saturday night.
Oh, so, did you wear anything fun?
I went as Mickey Mouse. Nobody knew it was me!
Have you done your homework yet, Izzie?
Yeah, I’ve already done it, Dad.
OK, that’s good. What was it today?
I wrote something about celebrities and fashion. It was
quite interesting.
Have you ever bought something you’ve never worn?
Yes, I have. I bought some beautiful designer boots last
year. The problem was, they didn’t really fit. I just
wanted to buy them because they were fantastic boots.
They’re still under my bed.
Oh, Alice …
Please don’t tell anyone!
4
John
I’m looking for an interesting book to read. Have you
read anything interesting recently?
Emma Well, I’ve just finished The Shadow of the Wind by
Carlos Ruiz Zafón. I really enjoyed it. Have you read it?
John No, I haven’t. What’s it like?
Emma It’s a really good story. In fact, when I started reading it,
I couldn’t stop.
5
Dan
Tina
Dan
Tina
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
Tina, have you ever been shopping in a foreign city?
Yes, I have. I went to Berlin last summer. I went
shopping on the Ku’damm. It’s like Oxford Street in
London.
Were the shops good?
Oh, yes, the Ku’damm has really good shops. And I love
shopping somewhere new.
4
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 5
Listening 1
FILE 5
Listening 2
Claire
Bryan
1
Presenter Today, we’re doing a survey about what people
think of their town … Hello, Jim? What do you
think of your town?
Jim
Well, when I first came here in 1990, it was very
safe. But now, I feel anxious. There are just too
many frustrated young people in the town. I think
it’s too dangerous now, especially for older people.
Presenter Oh, that’s not good, Jim. Thanks for your call.
Claire
Bryan
What’s the most beautiful city you’ve ever been to?
The most beautiful? That’s difficult to answer. I’ve
been to a lot of beautiful places! Let me see … My
favourites are probably Havana in Cuba and
Edinburgh in Scotland.
Oh, really? Can you tell me about them?
Well, both Edinburgh and Havana have got really
interesting architecture. But, for me, Edinburgh’s
architecture is more interesting. I studied architecture
there, you see, so I prefer it. Edinburgh also has a lot of
beautiful modern buildings, many more than in
Havana. And Edinburgh on a sunny winter’s day is
probably the most romantic city I’ve ever been to. I
met my girlfriend in Edinburgh so I think it’s more
romantic than Havana! The nightlife in Edinburgh is
good, but the nightlife in Havana is better. The music
is fantastic and the bars are open very late. The people
in Havana are the friendliest I’ve ever met. They like to
have fun and go out. I think the people in Edinburgh
are a bit less friendly, or maybe just quieter.
2
Presenter Next, we have Sandra. Hi, Sandra. What do you
think of your town?
Sandra
It’s a beautiful town with a castle, an old church,
and traditional shops. I know culture’s important,
but, for me, it isn’t interesting. I think tourists enjoy
these things more. So it’s interesting for them, but
too boring for me.
Presenter Oh, I see. What about that lovely market I’ve heard
about?
Sandra
The market? Oh, that’s for tourists, too. It’s so
boring!
Presenter OK … Thank you, Sandra.
3
Presenter Now, we have Dave … What’s your town like,
Dave?
Dave
Well, there are old buildings everywhere! I’d prefer
to live in a big, modern city. I’m 18 and this town
just isn’t modern enough for me. And the people
here don’t change either. They’re as traditional as
their parents!
Presenter Uh-huh, OK. Thanks for calling, Dave.
4
Presenter Hello, Jess … What do you think of your town?
Jess
Well, it’s quite small. I think it has a population of
about 350. And it’s famous for … nothing! It’s a
really quiet place, actually. Most people like living
somewhere quiet, but this town isn’t noisy enough
for me! I’d like to live in a town where there’s
nightlife, or a shopping centre, you know,
somewhere noisy to go!
Presenter I see. OK, Jess, thank you for your call.
5
Presenter And now, it’s Simon. Do you like your town,
Simon?
Simon
No, I’m sorry to say I don’t.
Presenter Oh, why is that?
Simon
Well, getting to work is a nightmare. On the roads
in the morning, the average speed is about 20km/h.
It’s just too crowded. There aren’t enough buses
for all the people who are going to work. We have
to use our cars, so we all spend more time sitting in
traffic than driving.
Presenter Yes, I understand, Simon. Well, thank you. And
that’s all we have time for today…
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
5
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 6
Listening 1
FILE 6
Listening 2
Sally
Anne
Sally
Anne
1
I felt really anxious when I woke up this morning. In my dream, I
was playing tennis, but I couldn’t move my legs! So I couldn’t hit
the ball back. I’ve got a match this afternoon. I think my dream
means I’m going to lose the match. Oh, I hope not. I’m not
feeling very positive about it at all.
Sally
Anne
Sally
Anne
Sally
Anne
Sally
Anne
Sally
Anne
Sally
Hi, Anne.
Sally! Guess what? Robbie and I have just got engaged!
Oh, that’s wonderful! When did he ask you?
Last night. But it’s a secret. We haven’t told our families
yet.
OK, I won’t tell anyone. I promise.
Thanks. He’s buying me a ring this afternoon. Then
we’re going out for a romantic dinner.
When are you getting married?
We’ll wait until next summer. We’ll probably go abroad,
actually. It’ll be cheaper.
Yes, I suppose so. But, if you’re going abroad … Will I
…? How much will …?
Oh, Sally! I’ll pay for your ticket! You’re definitely
coming with us!
Oh, Anne, thank you. I don’t want to miss it. I’ll pay you
back by Christmas.
It’s OK, don’t worry about that. Erm, Sally, we’ll
probably move to London after we get married …
Anne, listen, we’ll always be friends. Here or London, it
doesn’t matter.
I know we will, Sally. Thanks. Look, I have to go now.
I’ll text you later.
OK, Anne. Bye.
2
I had an amazing dream last night. I play the piano, you see, and
in my dream I was recording a blues album with all these
talented musicians. I think it means I’ll be a famous musician one
day … Well, I doubt it! But it’s nice to dream.
3
I had an interesting dream last week … I haven’t got a boyfriend,
but in the dream, I was going out with a lovely guy, who bought
me flowers. We could hear violin music and everything was
perfect. I’ve never had this kind of dream before. I definitely
think it means I’m going to meet someone and fall in love. I really
hope so.
4
My dreams are usually quite nice. But the one I had last night
was horrible! I was driving all night and it was freezing cold
outside. I was really frightened because I couldn’t stop the car.
I’ve got my driving test next week. I think my dream means I’ll
probably fail it.
5
I’ve got a good job and I work hard. But in a dream last week, I
lost my job. So I had no money to pay for food and everything. I
was going up to complete strangers in the street and asking them
for money. I felt afraid when I woke up. I think my dream means
I’m going to be poor. I’ll make sure that won’t happen.
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
6
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
FILE 7
Listening 1
Interviewer
Mr Wilkinson
Interviewer
Mr Wilkinson
Interviewer
Mr Wilkinson
Interviewer
Mr Wilkinson
Interviewer
Mr Wilkinson
Interviewer
Pre-intermediate
FILE 7
Listening 2
Welcome to Tips for Today. In the studio today,
we have Mr Robert Wilkinson, who has been a
language teacher for twenty-five years. He’s
going to give us some advice on learning a
language successfully. So, Mr Wilkinson, if
I’m a complete beginner, where do I start?
Well, you probably need to do a course, for
example, one evening a week. That will help
you to start learning immediately. And you’ll
also meet other people who are motivated to
learn.
That’s good advice because it can be quite
difficult to stay motivated on your own.
That’s right.
Now, what advice would you give to our
listeners who can speak a little, but need to
improve?
To improve your speaking, you really need to
practise. Is it possible for you to find someone
to practise with? If not, try reading out loud.
That can really help your pronunciation, too.
You mustn’t be shy or nervous – just do it!
OK, and what about listening? I think this is
the most difficult thing to improve.
If you’re learning a language abroad, it’s
definitely easier because you hear people
talking all the time. In your own country, make
sure you download podcasts or songs or news
onto your phone. You can listen to these when
you’re going to work or college.
Nice idea. And finally today, what about
reading?
Well, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on
foreign newspapers or books. There’s a huge
variety of things to read on the internet, such
as news websites and blogs. On Facebook and
Twitter, you can practise not only your reading
but also your writing skills.
That’s a good tip! Thank you, Mr Wilkinson.
That’s all we have time for on Tips for Today
but …
1
‘Well, I’ve got quite a stressful job. So, as soon as I get home in
the evening, I put on my favourite music. That’s a great way to
relax. I like listening to classical music best – Mozart or Chopin.
When I relax, I’m happy.’
2
‘I think it’s important to work hard. I’ve always worked
incredibly hard and I think that’s why I’m successful at my job.
Being successful makes me happy. I don’t mind spending time
with my family, but I prefer being at work.’
3
‘What makes me happy? Oh, I’ve always really wanted to have a
big family. So, spending time playing with my children is what I
like best. It’s magical. I’d like to get a job in the future. But, for
now, I like being with the children.’
4
‘I’m not very good at cooking and we never have a lot of food in
the fridge. So when I cook something absolutely delicious from
nothing, that makes me happy.’
5
‘Happiness for me is singing! Being able to sing the high notes is
very difficult. You have to practise a lot, and breathe correctly. I
sing in a band and I just love it.’
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
7
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 8
Listening 1
FILE 8
Listening 2
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
1
‘I lent my friend some money last week and she hasn’t given it
back yet. It was quite a lot of money, so I can’t forget about it. In
fact, if I don’t get the money back, I can’t pay for my English
classes this week. That’s a problem, because I have a test on
Friday. What do you think I should do?’
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
Diana
Pete
Hi, Pete. Are you OK?
Hi, Diana. Er, can I talk to you about something?
Sure. What’s the problem?
It’s about Maria. You know we’ve been together for
two months now. And you know I, well, I’m deeply in
love with her.
Yes …
Well, I did something bad last night.
Oh, no, Pete. What did you do?
I danced with her best friend, maybe for a bit too long.
Quite a long time, actually. Maria wasn’t very happy.
Not a good idea, Pete.
OK, some advice, please …
You should speak to her, Pete. If you say nothing, it’ll
make things worse than they are already.
I know. Talking about it is more difficult than you
think, though.
Well, why don’t you send her an email? Tell her you’re
sorry, and that you promise you won’t do it again.
She won’t read an email from me at the moment. I’m
sure of that.
Right, then, I think you should leave the office early.
She gets the early bus, so you’ll see her at the bus
station. Then you can speak to her. Tell her that you
love her. She’ll definitely change her mind. Girls love
that kind of talk.
You don’t know Maria. If I tell her I love her too soon,
she’ll get frightened and leave me.
OK, then. Book a nice restaurant. Persuade her to go
out for dinner with you. If you do that, I’m sure
everything will be all right.
Oh, I guess you’re right. I’ll leave work early and try to
find her at the bus station.
Good. And Pete, smile. Be happy. Make her laugh.
She’ll love that, too.
Yeah. OK, Diana.
2
‘I’ve got a problem. My boss wants me to go on a business
conference this weekend, but it’s my daughter’s birthday party.
She’s going to be five years old. All her school friends are coming
to the party. My boss is a bit difficult to get on with. I don’t want
to risk having an argument with him. Should I go to the
conference or to the party?’
3
‘I want to trust my boyfriend, but I think he is seeing someone
else. He gets texts from another girl. I took his phone and I read
the texts yesterday when he was playing football. Maybe she’s
just a friend but I don’t think he’s being honest with me. What
should I do?’
4
‘We’ve had a good year at work, so I’ve booked a restaurant for
all my colleagues to celebrate. I’m meeting them there in fifteen
minutes. But I’ve just heard on the radio that there’s a flood in
the city centre. Last year there was a flood and it was terrible.
What do you think I should do?’
5
‘I can’t seem to get to sleep at nights. I have a lot of work to do,
but I don’t think I’m stressed. After dinner, I make some coffee
and watch TV. That’s quite relaxing. But when I go to bed, I just
can’t sleep. I get hyperactive. In the morning, I’m really tired.
What should I do?’
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
8
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 9
Listening 1
FILE 9
Listening 2
Interviewer On the programme today, we’re talking about
phobias. My first guest is Kerry, who is on the
line now. Good morning, Kerry.
Kerry
Good morning.
Interviewer Now, Kerry, you have a fear of open or public
spaces.
Kerry
That’s right, yes.
Interviewer So, how long have you suffered from
agoraphobia?
Kerry
Well, since I was a child, really. I’ve suffered this
fear for about twenty years.
Interviewer Do you know what caused it?
Kerry
No, I don’t know what caused it, actually. I’ve
always been scared of going to places where
there are a lot of people. For example, I try not to
go into shopping centres, or buses, or
aeroplanes, or anywhere where there are crowds
of people. I just start to sweat and feel panic
when I go into these places.
Interviewer OK, Kerry. How does your phobia affect your
life?
Kerry
Not surprisingly, it has a severe effect on
everything I do. I’m frightened of being alone,
and I only feel safe at home. So, I can’t go out to
work. And I need to be with someone if I leave
the house.
Interviewer I understand. But, you have recently completed a
course in graphic design. Is that correct? How
did you do that?
Kerry
Yes, that’s right. I’ve been a graphic designer for
6 months now. I studied the course online, and I
do all my work from home. I don’t have to leave
the house at all, so it’s the perfect job for me.
Interviewer That’s great news. One last question, Kerry.
Have you had any treatment for your
agoraphobia?
Kerry
Well, I have therapy once a week to help me
overcome my phobia. And I’m now taking a new
drug every day. I hope this drug will be more
effective than the last one.
Interviewer OK, good luck with everything, Kerry. And
thanks for talking to us this morning. Now, our
next guest is James, and he …
1
Ann
Jeff
Ann
Jeff
How long have you been a musician, Jeff?
Since I was 15 years old. My mum bought me my first
guitar for my fifteenth birthday. We formed the band
in 1995, when I was 20, and we’ve played together
since then.
Do you think you’ll be famous one day?
If we were successful, I’d be really happy. But I don’t
know. We’ll see!
2
Billy
I see you’re at university in Bristol now, Hannah.
How long have you been there?
Hannah For four years. This year is my last year there. And
then I’m starting work as a dentist.
Billy
Isn’t your dad a dentist, too?
Hannah Yes, I’m following in his footsteps!
3
Kara
Nick
Kara
Nick
4
Don
Holly
Don
Holly
How long have you been afraid of spiders, Nick?
I’ve been terrified of them since I was five years old,
fifteen years ago.
Well, what happened?
I woke up with a huge spider on my face. It was
horrible.
Don
Holly, have you been married long?
Yes, we’ve been married for ten years.
Oh, I didn’t know that.
Well, I don’t tell many people. We’re getting divorced
next year.
Oh, I see …
5
Ella
Mike
Ella
Mike
How long have you been injured?
Since last Friday. I injured my foot in the match.
When will you be able to play again?
I’m not sure. Maybe next Saturday.
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
9
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 10
Listening 1
FILE 10
Listening 2
Conversation between two adults talking about their school days
1
Abby
Orla
Finn
Orla
Finn
Orla
Finn
Orla
Finn
Orla
Finn
Orla
Finn
Orla
Finn
Orla
Did you enjoy your schooldays, Finn?
Oh, yes and no. I went to a same-sex school, so there
were no girls. That was a bad thing! But I used to get
good marks in my reports every year.
Did you? I imagined that.
What about you? You never talk about school.
Oh, I absolutely hated it, that’s why. The other children
gave me a nickname – Cry Baby – because I used to cry a
lot at school. I used to be quite unhappy there. I think I
was just really emotional.
Oh, that’s awful.
Yes, I know. But I was clever and I was good at most of
my subjects.
What subjects did you take?
English, French, art, and history. I didn’t do any science
subjects.
Oh, really? I did all of them. But my favourite was
biology. I used to love cutting up insects and sheep’s
eyes …
Oh, stop it! Did you use to behave well at school?
Me? Erm, well, I think I used to be late for school quite a
lot. We used to walk there, and stop to throw stones in
the river on the way, especially in the summertime.
That made us late.
What else did you do that was bad?
Well, we had to wear a uniform, but I used to forget my
tie all the time. And I remember I was always losing my
chemistry books. The teacher used to get really angry
with me. But, I think I behaved well most of the time.
Uh-huh … I think I’ll have to ask your mum next time I
see her …
Paul
Abby
Paul
2
May
Bob
May
Bob
May
3
Ratan
Donna
Ratan
Donna
4
Evan
Lisa
Evan
Lisa
Evan
5
Sarah
Alfred
Sarah
Alfred
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
What are we going to do this evening, Paul? What
about the cinema?
But if we go to the cinema, we might not have time to
go out for dinner. It’ll be too late then. We could try
that new Indian restaurant in town …
I’m not sure. I heard it wasn’t very good. Let’s just get
a DVD and a pizza.
Yeah, that’s fine with me.
I might buy a new dishwasher at the weekend.
Why? The one in the kitchen is working perfectly.
Well, I know but I saw this new one in a magazine. It’s
so much better than ours.
There are just so many options these days. Let’s keep
the one we’ve got.
Oh, OK. I’d like a new washing machine though …
We’ve been in this shop for hours! You’re so
indecisive!
Well, it isn’t me. It’s the shop! I want some nice food
for my dinner party but there’s too much choice!
There are hundreds of products here. I’m just getting
stressed.
OK, well, how about we go for a coffee and make a
list?
Oh, I might not have the party now. Oh, I don’t know.
Let’s have a coffee …
I can’t decide which new game to buy.
You’ve already got about 50 of them. And you never
stop gaming.
I know, but I might like this one here. Or look at this
one …
Oh, switch your laptop off! If you don’t buy anything,
you won’t know what you’re missing.
You’re right. OK …
You see teenagers these days, why are they all so
dissatisfied with life?
I think they have too many choices, you know, too
many decisions to make.
Yes, when I was young, there were fewer
opportunities but it was also simpler.
That’s true. I think they’re confused. Life’s too
complicated now.
10
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 11
Listening 1
FILE 11
Listening 2
Male interviewer asking two women and two men in the street if
they are a morning person.
1
Lara
Robert
Interviewer Hello, excuse me, can I just ask you a couple of
questions?
Woman 1
Sorry, I can’t. I’m picking up the children from
school in five minutes …
Interviewer No problem, madam. Er, sir, excuse me, have you
got time to answer one or two questions? We’re
doing a survey.
Man 1
Yes, OK.
Interviewer So, are you a morning person, sir?
Man 1
I think so. I always wake up at six, and I never set
my alarm. I just get up and feel awake.
Interviewer And what’s the first thing you do after you wake
up?
Man 1
Well, I’m a professional footballer, so the first
thing I do is put on a T-shirt and shorts and go
running. And when I get back, I have a shower,
turn on the music and rest on the sofa. I’m often a
bit sleepy after my run.
Interviewer I can imagine. Thanks for your time. Erm, excuse
me, madam. We’re doing a survey …
Woman 2
What’s it about?
Interviewer Are you a morning person?
Woman 2
Oh. It depends on the season. In the winter I
often go back to sleep. But in the summer, I feel
more energetic and get up earlier.
Interviewer And what’s the first thing you do after you wake
up?
Woman 2
I do the same thing every day. I’ve got an online
shop, so I find out how many things were ordered
during the night.
Interviewer That sounds interesting. Thank you very much
for talking to us. Now, … Hello, sir. Can I ask you
a couple of questions?
Man 2
Is it a survey? OK.
Interviewer Are you a morning person, sir?
Man 2
I am definitely not an early bird. If I didn’t have an
alarm clock, I wouldn’t wake up.
Interviewer Really? And what’s the first thing you do after
you wake up?
Man 2
I have a bowl of cereal. Doesn’t everybody do
that in the morning?
Lara
Robert
Lara
2
Angus
Clare
Angus
Clare
3
Jamie
Fran
Jamie
Fran
4
Louis
Vicky
Louis
Vicky
Louis
Vicky
5
Andy
Paula
Andy
Paula
Andy
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
How are things with your new girlfriend, Robert?
Oh, we aren’t getting on very well. I just think we’ve
got nothing in common.
What do you mean?
Well, she plays basketball four nights a week. That’s
her social life.
And you like going for wild nights out. If I were you,
I’d look for someone else …
Is anyone sitting here?
No, please, sit down. I love watching the children play
volleyball.
So do I. I’m a bit late today, though. The game’s going
to be over soon.
Yes, and it’s match point. Come on, the blues!
Fran, I wanted to let you know, I’m not going out
tonight with the class.
Neither am I. I’m looking after my neighbour’s dogs.
What are you doing?
I’m going to get up early tomorrow morning and go
cycling.
That sounds energetic. I’ll see you for lunch, then!
So, what do you do, Vicky?
I’m a security guard.
What a coincidence! So am I. Isn’t that a difficult job
for a woman?
Not really. I do martial arts – that helps.
So, if someone insults you, you can throw them over
your shoulder …
Not usually! I try not to, anyway.
Hi, Paula … Great party …
Hi, Andy. I saw you earlier, but you didn’t wave.
That’s because it wasn’t me. I’ve just arrived. It was
probably my twin brother, Stuart.
Oh, I didn’t know you had a twin. You look exactly
the same!
I know. Everyone says that.
11
ENGLISH FILE
Listening Scripts
Pre-intermediate
FILE 12
Listening 1
FILE 12
Listening 2
Adult woman and man
1
Nicki
Martha I can’t believe some of the stories you read on the
internet …
Bob
What do you mean?
Martha Well, I read a story last night about a German
postman who got married to his cat!
Bob
You’re joking!
Martha No, I’m serious. The postman bought the cat in 2000.
He said that the cat had been his best friend since
then. He wanted to marry the cat because the cat had
become ill and was going to die. Officials had told the
postman that it wasn’t possible for him to marry a
cat, so the postman paid an actress to marry them.
Bob
That’s a strange story, Martha.
Martha Well, it’s true. And there’s another one about an
English postman. He was bitten by a snake when he
was taking the letters out of a postbox.
Bob
Oh, that’s awful!
Martha The snake had decided to sleep in the postbox. The
postman opened the box and the snake bit the
postman’s hand. He sucked the poison out. Then he
continued working.
Bob
What happened to the snake?
Martha Oh, I don’t know!
Bob
Have you read any other strange stories about
postmen?
Martha No, but I read a horrible story about snakes. Four
hundred snakes were found in a police station in
Sierra Leone.
Bob
What were the snakes doing in the police station?
Martha The snakes had made their home there. The police
and soldiers had to use water to flood them out. And
many of the snakes were killed. Ugh! That’s
frightening.
Bob
OK, Martha, that’s enough scary stories for one
night. Let’s watch something funny on the TV.
Martha All right!
Mark
Nicki
Mark
Nicki
2
Grant
Sheena
Grant
Sheena
Grant
3
Jim
Ivy
Jim
Ivy
4
Oliver
Dora
Oliver
Dora
5
Rich
Sandy
Rich
Sandy
English File Pre-intermediate Photocopiable © Oxford University Press 2012
Have you seen the photo of the little girl on the front
page of the newspaper? It’s amazing. Her face says so
much.
Let me see … Oh, yes, it’s really emotional.
Who said ‘A picture is worth a thousand words’?
I don’t know. Maybe Napoleon. Why?
Well, it’s so true, looking at that picture.
Which band do you think has made the most money?
It must be The Beatles.
Yes, I think you’re right. And which Beatles song is
the most popular?
I read somewhere that it’s Hey Jude.
Oh, really? That’s my favourite one, too.
Ivy, who discovered that the world was round, not
flat?
I think it was the Greeks, starting with Pythagoras.
I thought it was Ferdinand Magellan.
Well, I suppose Magellan was the first person to test
the idea. He sailed round the world and didn’t fall off!
Dora, who painted that picture on your wall? I’ve
seen it everywhere, but I can’t remember the artist’s
name.
It’s The Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh.
Of course, it’s Van Gogh. Now I remember. So which
painter cut part of his ear off, then?
That was Van Gogh, too.
Who directed the film One Day?
It was Lone Scherfig. Have you heard of her? She’s
from Denmark, I think. The film is actually adapted
from a novel.
Oh, I didn’t know that. So, who wrote the novel,
then?
David Nicholls. It was a bestseller.
12